Makay'S Microwave Meat Loaf
A quick and flavorful microwave meat loaf with a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals. Juicy, savory, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon prepared mustard ⓘ
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten ⓘ
- 1 golf ball size onion, grated fine ⓘ
- 1/2 cup bread or soda cracker crumbs ⓘ
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef (9% fat preferred) ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon low sodium salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon chili powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
- Distribute evenly in a large ring mold or microwave-safe round casserole.
- Cook on maximum power for 16 minutes, turning the container 1/4 turn after every 4 minutes.
- Let stand for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly tangy twist, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or replacing some of the ground beef with ground turkey. If you're short on time, pre-packaged breadcrumbs work well in place of soda cracker crumbs. Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly for a uniform texture, which is essential for a meatloaf that holds together well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Makay's Microwave Meat Loaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a more casual dining experience, slice the meatloaf and serve it on a bun with your favorite condiments, creating a delicious meatloaf sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warmed through. For best results, consider reheating in an oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Makay'S Microwave Meat Loaf contains roughly 220 calories, with 5g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I do if my meatloaf is too dry?
If your meatloaf turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough moisture in the mixture. You can add a splash of beef broth or an extra egg to the mixture next time to help with moisture. Additionally, serving it with a side of gravy can enhance its juiciness when serving.
How can I add more flavor to the meatloaf?
To enhance the flavor of your meatloaf, consider adding minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. Incorporating finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can also add moisture and flavor, making it a delicious addition to your beef recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).